Jonas, Stephen

Morphogenesis

Cambridge, MA: The Restau Press, 1970. First Edition, First Printing. Stapled Wrappers. A volume of poems by the gay Black American poet, Stephen Jonas (1921-1970) — an enormous talent known, primarily for his associations with John Wieners (1934-2002) & his being influenced, heavily by the great Charles Olson (1910-1970). While Jonas died young (1970), his body of work has become increasingly appreciated over time, and a volume like Morphogenesis shows why. A bibliographic notation on this volume before closing: this is the only Restau Press publication that was not either a magazine or a broadside, and was issued simultaneously in two editions: one far less adorned than this one, which has a white cover and features only the title and the author’s name, and then this edition, printed in dark green wrappers. A gorgeous letterpress production from one of the century’s finest poets. From the collection of Albert Glover (1942-2026), the esteemed American poet, editor, publisher & academician who was the foremost remaining authority on Olson. Glover was a student of & anointed by the Maximus Master himself at SUNY Buffalo during the 1960s, & had ever since served outstandingly to bear the Olsonian Torch as bibliographer, editor & publisher. Glover passed away during February of 2026, & we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family. Book is in strong near fine condition with only mild-to-moderate shelf-wear, light bumping & select, low-visibility exhibits of bump-creasing to fine-edges & corners of front, back covers & spine-edge; otherwise, generally clean. Near Fine. [Item #8899]

Price: $225.00